However, one starting lineman has drawn preseason scrutiny as a potential hurdle for the Bengals this season. Preview discussions highlighted Orlando Brown Jr. as the biggest concern for the unit. The assessment notes that Brown is aiming to return to the form he showed before a broken leg he suffered in 2024, particularly at left tackle. The tackle position overall was described as a place where depth could be tested if either Brown or starter Amarius Mims were to miss time. The preseason did not reveal a definitive swing tackle candidate, though the team added Myles Hinton in pursuit of that role.
contract history: Brown Jr. joined Cincinnati prior to the 2023 season on a four-year, $64 million deal and has started 45 games for the Bengals since then. He earned Pro Bowl selections in four straight seasons before signing a two-year extension this past offseason, bringing career earnings well over $119 million. In the 2024-25 season, Brown posted a 60.3 overall grade from Pro Football Focus, ranking 66th among 89 qualified offensive tackles. His pass-blocking grade (62.0) ranked 63rd, and his run-blocking grade (59.8) ranked 61st at the position.
Raising questions about execution, Brown’s recent play has prompted discussions about potential rust returning to form. He did show some vulnerability in a recent preseason game, where an undrafted Lions pass rusher beat him for a hit on the quarterback. While one game is not determinative, it has spurred conversations about depth at the position and how the unit can best protect the franchise quarterback.
In response to the early-season critiques, the head coach underscored accountability across the line. The coach noted that when plays don’t go as planned, the group takes responsibility and looks for ways to improve. This stance emphasizes a collaborative approach to shore up protection and create more consistency for Burrow and the offense.
Looking ahead to Week 1, the Bengals hope that any early-season rust has faded. A Week 1 matchup against a capable Tampa Bay Buccaneers squad will serve as a real test for the offensive line’s ability to gel under game conditions. The team’s objective remains clear: minimize sacks, enhance pop in the running game, and maintain steady pass protection as the offense builds rhythm.
Key context for fans and fantasy enthusiasts: the offensive line’s stability in 2026—especially at left tackle—could influence overall offensive efficiency, Burrow’s comfort in the pocket, and the effectiveness of the play-action game. If Brown returns to peak form and the depth players can contribute if called upon, the Bengals’ offense may trend toward the upper tier of the division.
Bottom line: Cincinnati’s 2026 outlook is cautiously optimistic. With the same five starters on the line and a renewed focus on defense, the team has a path to building on last year’s progress. The immediate challenge is ensuring that the left tackle position remains reliable, minimizing exposure to pressure, and keeping Burrow upright as the offense seeks to maximize its passing and running efficiency early in the season.
